About the Role
Our client, a leading engineering consultancy firm specializing in power infrastructure, is seeking a distinguished Principal Substation Design Engineer to join their esteemed team in East London, Eastern Cape . This senior position will lead the design and engineering of high-voltage substations, ensuring compliance with industry standards, project specifications, and client requirements. You will be responsible for overseeing all technical aspects of substation design, from conceptualization through to detailed engineering, including physical layout, electrical schematics, protection systems, and earthing design. The successful candidate will possess extensive experience in substation engineering, strong leadership capabilities, and a commitment to delivering safe, reliable, and cost-effective solutions. This role offers a fantastic opportunity to contribute to major infrastructure projects across the region from our East London office, with a flexible hybrid working model.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the design and engineering of high-voltage AC and DC substations, from concept to detailed design.
- Develop comprehensive engineering drawings, schematics, single-line diagrams, and construction documents.
- Specify substation equipment, including transformers, circuit breakers, switchgear, and protection relays.
- Design protection and control systems for substations, ensuring system stability and safety.
- Perform site selection studies, layout design, and civil/structural considerations.
- Conduct equipment sizing, earthing system design, and lightning protection analysis.
- Ensure designs comply with relevant national and international standards (e.g., SANS, IEC, IEEE).
- Review and approve designs prepared by junior engineers and external consultants.
- Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources for design-related tasks.
- Provide technical expertise and support during the procurement, construction, and commissioning phases.
- Liaise with clients, project managers, and other stakeholders to ensure design requirements are met.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering; a Master's degree is preferred.
- Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) registration with ECSA is mandatory.
- Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in substation design engineering.
- Proven track record in leading the design of major high-voltage substation projects (e.g., 132kV, 275kV, 400kV).
- In-depth knowledge of substation components, power system protection, control systems, and grid codes.
- Proficiency in relevant design software such as AutoCAD Electrical, ETAP, PSS/E, and other specialized substation design tools.
- Strong leadership, project management, and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent communication, report-writing, and interpersonal abilities.
- Experience in renewable energy integration at substation level is a significant advantage.
- Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment and travel occasionally to project sites.
Benefits
- Competitive executive-level salary and comprehensive benefits package.
- Opportunities for significant career advancement and leadership roles.
- Hybrid work model offering a blend of office-based and remote work flexibility.
- Involvement in critical and impactful energy infrastructure projects in the Eastern Cape .
- Company-sponsored professional development and training.
- Contribution to medical aid and pension fund.
- Annual performance bonuses.